Speers determined to get better

The Soo Greyhounds first-round draft choice used the weekend to exhibit the speed, skill and finishing touch that made him a hot commodity, prior to last month's Ontario Hockey League Priority Selections.

But while pleased with his showing -- “I think I've played well,” Blake Speers said – the player taken 11th overall wasn't entirely satisfied. “But I definitely think I have more to bring to the table.”

Speers, a 16-year-old Sault Ste. Marie native, spoke of how he thoroughly enjoyed his first taste of OHL life at the Hounds annual Spring Development Camp.

The first two days of the three-day event were held at Essar Centre. Sunday's final day of action took place at John Rhodes Community Centre.

“I knew the pace would be higher, but that's something you have to adjust to,” said Speers, a five-foot-10, 160-pound centre.

Selected from the Soo Thunder minor midgets, Speers displayed the scoring touch that led to a 50-goal season early in Saturday night's scrimmage.

Taking a feed from Brandon Hughes, a 14th-round selection a year ago, Speers cut loose with a one-timer that quickly found its way into the top of the opposition net.

“The one, true scoring chance he had, he buried it,” said Hounds head coach Sheldon Keefe. “He did a lot of good things and, especially early in the camp, showed how dynamic he can be. He's been well-coached by Sal (Lamantea) and that's a positive for us.”

By the third period Saturday, like many on the ice, Speers admitted he was running on fumes.

“But you can tell he has elite skill and speed,” said general manager Kyle Dubas.

Yet, Dubas spoke of the work that lies ahead for a player who must get bigger and stronger before making his regular season debut in the fall.

And, the Hounds GM added, things aren't likely to fall into place overnight for Speers.

“Fans will need to be a little bit patient,” Dubas cautioned. “He's looked good here. But it's another thing to do this against OHLers.”

Speers realizes that, and is committed to making himself into the best player possible.

His short-term goal, he said, is to add 10-or-more pounds to his frame, along with the strength that goes with them.

He's worked out with personal trainer Mike Cowan for the last two years and begins his regimen with Cowan again a week from today.

“I want to have a stronger upper body,” Speers said. “I'm also going to work on making decisions quicker and being more consistent. My goal is to come in here next year and help us get into the playoffs.”

Saying he wants to earn regular ice time, Speers wouldn't speculate as to where he hopes to land on the Hounds 2013-2014 centre-ice depth chart.

Rookies a year ago, Jared McCann and Ryan Kirkup return. Another centre, Tyler Gaudet, is likely to be back for his overage season.

“If I play my best hockey, things will work out,” Speers predicted.

Asked if he feels any pressure as a local player surrounded by high expectations, Speers said no.

“I'm not really nervous about playing here,” he added. “You have to take pressure for what it is. You don't change your game just because people are watching you. This is where I want to be and I wouldn't trade it for the world. Hockey is fun to play and I just intend on keeping it that way.”